Preclinical evaluation of an 18F-trifluoroborate methionine derivative for glioma imaging

Purpose 11 C–methionine (MET) is one of the most commonly used amino acid tracers for PET imaging of brain tumors. In this study, we report an 18 F-labeled boron-derived methionine analogue, denoted as 18 F-B-MET, as a potential substitute of 11 C–MET for glioma PET imaging. Methods 19 F-B-MET was synthesized from readily available chemicals according to our previous publication. For kit development, 19 F-B-MET was aliquoted in quantities of 10 nmol for on-demand one-step labeling. The 18 F-labeling was performed by 18 F- 19 F isotope exchange, and quality control was performed by both HPLC and radio-TLC. Uptake of the tracer was determined in GL26, C6 and U87 tumor cells. PET imaging and the biodistribution assay were performed on mice bearing subcutaneous or orthotopic C6 and U87 tumor xenografts. Results Starting with 740–1110 MBq 18 F-fluoride, >370 MBq of 18 F-B-MET was obtained in 25 min ( n = 5) with >99% purity and high specific activity (>37 GBq/μmol). 18 F-B-MET demonstrated excellent in vitro stability with